The Devil's Betrothed novel Chapter 457

Chapter 457: I Went To That Witch

Oriana settled into the chair as Yorian began to speak, "Upon delving into those tomes on black magic, we’ve discerned that breaking the curse needs that witch’s blood. However, the important thing is we can do it only one the night of the New Moon or to won’t work."

Gritting her teeth, Oriana voiced her frustration, "I wish we could shatter that curse immediately and dispatch her, even without waiting for the New Moon."

Understanding her impatience, Yorian continued, "I empathize with your anger, but there’s a reason why the plan revolves around the New Moon. She possesses formidable powers, and it’s not easy to kill her. Killing her meaning, we need to destroy her soul entirely and if we aim to destroy her soul, we must choose the opportune moment."

"This means waiting for her guards to be down and her powers distracted and it will only happen at the moment when she will prepare herself to transfer of her soul onto my body. At that moment, she would be most vulnerable to be attacked by me," Oriana added.

Yorian nodded, "Only then can you end her. Any premature attempt would fall short of destroying her soul, leaving her to resurface and trouble you once more. We have only one chance in hand, and we can not miss it at any cost."

Oriana sighed in frustration, "At the same time we must also destroy those roses. They are another source of her dark power and on the night of the new moon, it would be strongest."

Yorian nodded in agreement, "Hence, we have three tasks to perform at the same time— killing her, lifting the curse on the King, and eradicating the roses. Fortunately you managed to fool her into ridding other royal family members from the curse, so we only have to focus on the king or things would have been difficult."

"Three tasks, all to be executed simultaneously. How do we orchestrate this?" Oriana pondered, "I’ll handle her demise, and you’ll handle destroying those roses. But breaking the curse on the king—how do we manage that without a black witch?"

"I lack the ability to break curses, being no witch myself. My role lies in the destruction of the roses which I can perform with the help of King Drayce. His attribute of darkness will be helpful here," Yorian clarified. "But to break the curse, we need the help of a powerful and knowledgeable black witch."

"Can’t King Drayce help with it as well?" Oriana asked.

"Despite being a warlock, King Drayce’s powers lean towards the white spectrum. His draconic darkness attribute may not be of much help, considering breaking the curse requires knowledge specific to unraveling evil black magic. I doubt King Drayce has ventured into the darker aspects of black magic to comprehend how to break such curses. White witches are explicitly prohibited from delving into malevolent black magic, as the repercussions could lead to their own soul’s destruction."

"Then..." Oriana mused, "I believe we have another option."

Yorian affirmed, "You’ll need to persuade her to assist you."

"I will," Oriana asserted, "Even if it means striking another deal with her. The current urgency outweighs any consequences of future bargains."

Yorian could not deny it as for now matter at hand was important and then thinking about what Zaria might ask Oriana in exchange for another help.

"It’s the third night since the full moon, and the New Moon is twelve nights away. You have eleven nights to hone your skills and prepare for the confrontation," Yorian advised.

"I need to summon a master..."

"Not now," Yorian interjected, "You’re already fatigued. Rest is essential. Besides, you have your obligations to the prince. Set Zaria aside for the moment. Focus on what you plan to communicate with him."

Oriana nodded, perplexed, "I’ll gauge the conversation with him and then decide how much to disclose."

Oriana made her way to Thistle Palace as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow on the numerous lamps that illuminated the palace and pathways. Her carriage came to a halt at the Crown Prince’s palace, where she was greeted by the welcoming atmosphere.

Unimpeded, Oriana proceeded directly to the second floor, stopping in front of Arlan’s chamber.

"Has he had sufficient rest?" Oriana inquired.

Imebert, who bowed respectfully, responded, "Yes, Your Highness."

"I will announce Your Highness’ arrival...."

"No need," Rafal’s words were interrupted, and Imbert signaled him to step aside.

The two knights retreated to a specific distance in the hallways while Oriana entered the chamber. Arlan stood by the window, gazing outside in quiet contemplation, his hands folded behind his back, immersed in the serenity of the night sky.

Though the door opened and closed, Arlan did not react, seemingly unaware of Oriana’s presence.

"How are you feeling now, Your Highness?" she inquired as she approached.

Arlan remained silent, offering no response as Oriana stood beside him. Without a word, she took his hand to check his pulse. Arlan continued his quiet introspection, not reacting to her touch or uttering a single word.